24% of primary pupils miss out on first choice of secondary school in Hertfordshire

Almost a quarter of primary pupils have missed out on their first choice of secondary school in Hertfordshire from September.

The county council has announced that 94% of children have been allocated a place at one of their four preferred options.

Of the 14,703 Hertfordshire youngsters who applied, 76% have been offered their first choice.

Families who applied online have been notified of their allocation today (Monday, March 3).

Cllr Caroline Clapper, the council’s executive member for education, libraries and lifelong learning, said: “While I appreciate that a small number of parents may be disappointed with the school they have been allocated, I would encourage them to research the school and speak to the head teacher before dismissing the offered place. They may be pleasantly surprised by what they see.”

While overall applications were down 28 compared to last year, 16 schools across the county are offering 400 additional places to satisfy local demand.

All applicants not offered their first choice will automatically be placed on the ‘continuing interest’ list in case places at their preferred options become available.

Parents and carers have until March 17 to accept places. For more information, see www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/admissionsoptions.